It’s one thing to hear about this from the SCA or other organizations, but another to hear it straight from farmers themselves. The last few paragraphs really hit hard, where it all comes down to economics.
That's the main reason I wanted to write this piece, to hear from farmers directly - it does seem to be quite rare. I found it especially interesting how many of their experiences, and the impacts they're facing, are the same no matter the country.
I was listening to Boss Barista’s latest podcast this morning, and I’m struck by how well your piece pairs with hers (https://spotify.link/VETd12mT2yb).
A common response to the economic problem is “we need to pay farmers more”. I agree, but I wonder if there’s more to it?
I can’t help but think that without farmers having better market access on their own terms, the improvements would be fragile, and dependent on the *temporary* goodwill of roasters, cafes, and consumers.
Too true, Taylor. Until northern coffee roasters and retailers get it through their heads that the entire paradigm around coffee and commerce has to change we will simply continue at an ever accelerating pace towards coffee and people oblivion. I wrote an article for the coffee industry in 1989 entitled "Coffee as Conventionally grown is unsustainable" and was attacked by the larger roaster importers. I have been working directly with farmers for thirty years through my company (soon to be coop) and my voice at SCA has been slowly marginalized for years. It is survival, not charity we need to understand.
Thanks for writing this.
It’s one thing to hear about this from the SCA or other organizations, but another to hear it straight from farmers themselves. The last few paragraphs really hit hard, where it all comes down to economics.
Thanks Taylor!
That's the main reason I wanted to write this piece, to hear from farmers directly - it does seem to be quite rare. I found it especially interesting how many of their experiences, and the impacts they're facing, are the same no matter the country.
I was listening to Boss Barista’s latest podcast this morning, and I’m struck by how well your piece pairs with hers (https://spotify.link/VETd12mT2yb).
A common response to the economic problem is “we need to pay farmers more”. I agree, but I wonder if there’s more to it?
I can’t help but think that without farmers having better market access on their own terms, the improvements would be fragile, and dependent on the *temporary* goodwill of roasters, cafes, and consumers.
Too true, Taylor. Until northern coffee roasters and retailers get it through their heads that the entire paradigm around coffee and commerce has to change we will simply continue at an ever accelerating pace towards coffee and people oblivion. I wrote an article for the coffee industry in 1989 entitled "Coffee as Conventionally grown is unsustainable" and was attacked by the larger roaster importers. I have been working directly with farmers for thirty years through my company (soon to be coop) and my voice at SCA has been slowly marginalized for years. It is survival, not charity we need to understand.